Factsheets downloaded from the U.S. Navy's BBS. Posted in two parts. Updated files posted as they become available. Aircraft profiled in this file: F/A-18 Hornet F-14A TOMCAT A-6E Intruder A-7E Corsair II P-3C Orion E-2C HAWKEYE EA-6B Prowler AV-8B Harrier T-45A GOSHAWK F-16N FIGHTING FALCON V-22A OSPREY E-6A C-130 HERCULES C-9B SKYTRAIN II C-2A GREYHOUND SH-60B SEAHAWK SH-2F Seasprite CH-53E SUPER STALLION CH-53E SEA STALLION SH-3H Sea King UH-46 SEA KNIGHT HH-60H VH-60N THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA VH-3D EXECUTIVE HELICOPTER S-3 Viking NAVY FACT FILE F/A-18 Hornet MISSION: Strike-fighter designed to perform both fighter and attack roles for the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marine Corps. COMMENTARY: The single-seat F/A-18 Hornet is the nation's first strike-fighter. It was designed for traditional strike applications such as interdiction and close air support without compromising its fighter capabilities. With its excellent fighter and self-defense capabilities, the F/A-18 at the same time increases strike mission survivability and supplements the F-14 Tomcat in fleet air defense. It thus acts as a true force multiplier, providing operational commanders with flexibility by allowing them to employ it in either its fighter or its attack role. F/A-18 Hornets are currently operating from seven aircraft carriers and 15 Navy and Marine Corps air stations. The night attack versions of both the single-seat F/A-18C and the dual-seat F/A-18D will begin delivery in October 1989. These aircraft, equipped with a thermal imaging navigation set and a night vision system, will have same capability at night as current aircraft have by day. The F/A-18 represents progress toward the goal of putting to sea a modern and effective force that is capable of meeting all commitments. Eighty-four were requested in the FY-89 budget, and 72 in the FY-90 budget. The planned total buy is 1,168 aircraft. Inventory as of May 1, 1989 was 524. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 56 feet Wing Span: 37 feet 5 inches Height: 15 feet 3 inches Weight: Take-off max gross (fighter): 36,628 pounds; Take-off max gross (attack): 51,900 pounds Speed: Mach 1.7+ Ceiling: Over 50,000 feet Propulsion: Two F404-GE-400 low bypass turbofan Engines: 16,000 pounds static thrust each Range: Fighter: 400 nautical miles (internal fuel); Attack: 550 nautical miles Armament: One 20mm Mk-61A1 Vulcan cannon; Fighter Mission: Sparrow III; Sidewinder; Attack Mission: Guided and conventional air-to-ground ordnance; FLIR/LDT pods Crew: One Contractor: Prime: McDonnell Aircraft; Major Subcontractor:Northrop SOURCE: >Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE F-14A TOMCAT MISSION: Air superiority fighter designed to attack and destroy multiple airborne targets in all weather conditions and at night. COMMENTARY: The F-14A is a supersonic, twin-engine, variable sweep wing, two-place fighter that was designed to replace the venerable F-4 Phantom II series of fleet air defense fighters (the last one of which was phased out in 1986). It can track up to 24 targets simultaneously with its advanced AWG-9 weapons control system, and attack six with Phoenix (AIM-54A) missiles while continuing to scan the airspace. Armament also includes a mix of other air intercept missiles, rockets, and bombs. F-14s provided air cover for the joint strike on Libyan terrorist-related targets in 1986. The F-14 is the premier all-weather, day-night fleet air defense fighter in the world. The F-14A was introduced in the mid-1970s. The upgraded the F-14A+ version, which has new GE F-110 engines, is now widespread throughout the fleet, and is more than a match for threat fighters in the close-in, air combat arena. The follow-on to the F-14A and F-14-A+ is the F-14D, designed to close emerging gaps in the carrier battle group's outer air capability against new generation Soviet bombers and cruise missiles. The Navy is scheduled to purchase 19 F-14Ds with the first acceptance planned for March 1990. In addition, the Navy plans to remanufacture 400 F-14A and A+ aircraft into F-15Ds, saving 50 percent on the average unit cost. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 62 feet 9 inches Wing Span: 64.1 feet unswept, 38 feet swept Height: 16 feet Weight: Take-off max gross: 69,800 pounds; Empty: 41,500 Speed: Mach 2+ Ceiling: Above 50,000 feet Propulsion: F-14A: Two Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-414A turbofan engines with afterburners (20,900 pounds static thrust each); F-14A+ and F-14D: Two General Electric F-110-GE-400 augmented turbofan engines with afterburners (27,000-29,000 pounds static thrust each) Crew: Two Armament: Six Phoenix AIM-54A missiles; four Sparrow missiles; four Sidewinder missiles; one 20mm Mk-61A1 Vulcan cannon Contractor: Grumman Aerospace Corporation SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE A-6E Intruder MISSION: Destroy both fixed and moving targets at sea or ashore, in all weather conditions day and night. COMMENTARY: The A-6E is an all-weather, two seat, subsonic, carrier-based attack aircraft. It is equipped with a microminiaturized digital computer, a solid state weapons release system, and a single, integrated track and search radar. The target recognition/attack multi-sensor (TRAM) version of the A-6E was introduced to the fleet in 1979. It is equipped with a chin turret containing a forward-looking infra-red (FLIR) system and a laser designator and receiver. The A-6E proved once again that it is the best all-weather precision bomber in the world in the joint strike on Libyan terrorist-related targets in 1986. With Air Force FB-111s, A-6E Intruders penetrated the sophisticated Libyan air defense systems, which had been alerted by the high level of diplomatic tension and by rumors of impending attacks. Evading over 100 guided missiles, the strike force flew at low levels in complete darkness, and accurately delivered laser-guided and other ordnance on target. Composite wing replacement and systems/weapons improvement programs are underway to maintain full A-6E combat systems capability, with initial operational capability realized in FY 88 with VA-75 deployment onboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67). CHARACTERISTICS Length: 54 feet 8 inches Wing Span: 53 feet Height: 15 feet 6 inches Weight: Take-off max gross: 60,400 pounds; take-off max gross (carrier): 58,600 pounds; empty weight: 28,000 pounds Speed: 563 knots Ceiling: 40,600 feet Propulsion: Two Pratt & Whitney J52-P8B engines (9,300 pounds thrust each) Crew: Two Armament: Bombs, rockets, and air-to-surface missiles Contractor: Grumman Aerospace Corporation SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE A-7E Corsair II MISSION: Destroy fixed and moving targets ashore and at sea; interdiction and close air support. COMMENTARY: The A-7E is the current, fleet version of the A-7. After more than two decades of service, however, it is due to be replaced by the F/A-18 Hornet. Built originally on the airframe of the F-8U Crusader, the A-7 has undergone a number of modifications since its 1965 introduction. The A-7E has a 20mm gun and can carry payloads of up to 15,000 pounds of bombs and missiles. Eight ordnance stations are available. A-7E Corsair IIs were part of the two-carrier battle group that conducted a joint strike on selected Libyan terrorist-related targets in 1986. Together with carrier-based F/A-18s, A-7s used anti-radiation missiles to neutralize Libyan air defenses. F/A-18s are scheduled to replace A-7Es in the carrier air wing mix. The last two squadrons are scheduled to transition in FY 1992. Replacing A-7s with F/A-18s gives operational commanders more flexibility by allowing them to employ the F/A-18s in either the fighter or attack role. Also, a smaller number of aircraft (85) are needed in an F/A-18 equipped carrier air wing than in an A-7E equipped carrier air wing (94). Carriers are already being modified to support F/A-18 equipped air wings. No new procurement of A-7s is planned. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 46 feet Wing Span: 39 feet Height: 16 feet Weight: Take-off max gross: 42,000 pounds; Empty: 19,111 pounds Speed: 600 knots Ceiling: 40,000 feet Range: About 700 nautical miles w/4,000pounds ordnance; 2,500 nautical miles ferry Propulsion: One Allison TF-41-A-402D non-afterburning turbofan; 15,000 pounds thrust Armament: One 20mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon; two Sidewinder air-to-air missiles; various combinations of bombs and/or missiles Contractor: Vought SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE P-3C Orion MISSION: Detect, classify, localize, track and destroy enemy high performance submarines, and perform surface surveillance. COMMENTARY: The P-3C is a land-based, long range anti-submarine warfare (ASW) patrol aircraft. It has advanced submarine detection sensors such as the directional frequency and ranging (DIFAR) sonobouys and magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) equipment. The avionics system is integrated by a general purpose digital computer that supports all of the tactical displays, monitors and automatically launches ordnance, while providing flight information to the pilots. In addition, the system coordinates navigation information and accepts sensor data inputs for tactical display and storage. The P-3C can carry a mixed payload of weapons internally and on wing pylons. A major effort underway to upgrade the capabilities of the P-3 is the P-3 Update IV. It will provide vastly improved radar and electronic detection capabilities plus a significantly improved acoustic signal processor for both the P-3C and the forthcoming P-7A Long Range Air ASW Capability Aircraft (LRAACA). Initial update IV operational capability is expected in FY 1990. CHARACTERISTICS (P-3C) Length: 116 feet 3 inches Wing Span: 99 feet 7 inches Height: 37 feet 1 inch Weight: Max gross take-off: 142,000 pounds; Empty: 67,486 pounds Speed: 324 knots Ceiling: 30,000 feet Range: Max mission radius: 2,390 nautical miles; for 3 hours on station at 1,500 feet; 1,346 nautical miles Propulsion: Four Allison T-56-A-14 turboprop engines (4,910 shaft horsepower each) Crew: 10 Armament: Mk-46 torpedoes; Bullpup air-to-ground missiles; Harpoon (AGM-84) cruise missile; sonobouys Contractor: Lockheed-California Company SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE E-2C HAWKEYE MISSION: Provide all-weather airborne early warning and command and control functions for the carrier battle group. Additional missions include: surface surveillance coordination, strike and interceptor control, search and rescue guidance and communications relay. COMMENTARY: The E-2C Hawkeye is the U.S. Navy's all-weather, carrier-based tactical airborne warning and control system platform. An integral component of the carrier air wing, the E-2C carries three primary sensors: radar, IFF, and a passive detection system. These sensors are integrated through a general purpose computer that enables the E-2C to provide early warning, threat analyses, and control of counter action against air and surface targets. The E-2C incorporates the latest solid state electronics. Carrier-based E-2C Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft directed F-14 Tomcat fighters that provided combat air patrol during the two-carrier battle group joint strike against terrorist-related Libyan targets in 1986, and during the crisis period preceeding and following the strike. E-2Cs and AEGIS cruisers, working together, provided total air mass superiority over the American fleet. During this time, American aircraft made 153 intercepts of Libyan air force attempts to overfly the U.S. fleet, intercept the U.S. fighter combat air patrol, or gather intelligence information. Not once did a Libyan aircraft get into firing position before it was locked into the sights of a U.S. aircraft or AEGIS platform missile. E-2 aircraft also have worked extremely effectively with U.S. law enforcement agencies in drug interdiction operations. The E-2C replaces the E-2B, an earlier version. E-2C aircraft entered U.S. Navy service with Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123) at NAS Norfolk, Va., in November 1973. Procurement of E-2Cs by the Navy is planned at six per year for FY 1988-98. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 57 feet, 6 inches;Wing Span: 80 feet 17 inches Height: 18 feet, 3 inches Weight: Max take-off gross: 53,000 pounds Speed: 320 knots; Ceiling:33,000 feet Propulsion: Two Allison T-56-A427 turboprop engines; (5,000 shaft horsepower each) Crew: Five Contractor: Grumman Aerospace Corp. SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE EA-6B Prowler MISSION: To provide an umbrella of protection for Strike Aircraft and Fleet Battle Group assets to operate within by denying or delaying the enemy use of radar, data links and communications. COMMENTARY: The EA-6B is an all-weather, four seat, subsonic, carrier-based tactical electronic warfare aircraft. It consists of three weapon subsystems: the Onboard System (OBS) consisting of onboard receiving sensors, Tactical Jamming System (TJS) consisting of pod mounted high-powered jamming transmitters, and the AGM-88A High Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM). Its crew consists of a pilot and three Electronic Countermeasures Officers (ECMOs) to operate the complex ALQ-99 weapon system. The Universal Exciter was introduced in 1984 which provides larger flexibility in targeting enemy radars with jamming modulations, and in 1986 HARM was integrated on the EA-6B which is fired in connection with the OBS receiving system. The EA-6B has been used extensively to support operations during the conflict with Libya in 1986 and Iran in 1988. Providing jamming coverage, the EA-6B was able to successfully prevent the missile engagement of any U.S. strike aircraft during Libyan operations, and also prevented hostile Iranian air forces from engaging the U.S. surface fleet in the Persian Gulf. The Advanced Capability Prowler (ADVCAP) weapon system upgrade is currently underway to maintain electronic warfare superiority into the 1990's. This system will include a new receiver system, the ALQ-149 communications jammer and improved maneuvering characteristics for the airframe as well as a new engine - the J52-P409. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 59 feet 10 inches Wing Span: 53 feet Height: 16 feet 3 inches Weight: Take-off max gross: 61,500 pounds; take-off max gross (carrier): 58,600 pounds; Empty weight: 34,000 pounds Speed: 541 Knots; Ceiling:37,600 feet Propulsion: Two Pratt & Whitney J52-P408 engines (11,200 pounds thrust each) Crew: Four; Armament: AGM-88A HARM Contractor: Grumman Aerospace Corporation SOURCE: Naval Air Systems Command; EA-6B Program Office NAVY FACT FILE AV-8B Harrier MISSION: Light attack and close air support for ground forces. COMMENTARY: The AV-8B is a single-engine, single crew member aircraft capable of vertical/short take-off and landing (V/STOL) operations. Operated by the U.S. Marine Corps, it was designed to be highly responsive to the needs of ground forces for close air support. Its V/STOL capability enables it to operate from relatively unprepared sites close to the action, thus increasing its sortie rate. It also can operate from U.S. Navy amphibious assault ships. The AV-8B is built primarily by McDonnell Aircraft Company, a division of McDonnell Douglas Corporation, with major contributions by British Aerospace. The predecessor to the AV-8B, British Aerospace's AV-8C, was introduced to the U.S. Marine Corps in 1969. The British version of the aircraft saw a great deal of action during the 1982 Falklands War. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 46 feet 4 inches Wing Span: 30 feet 4 inches Height: 11 feet 9 inches Weight: 12,500 pounds empty; 29,750 pounds (max gross take-off) Speed: 547 knots Ceiling: 50,000 feet Propulsion: One Pegasus F402-RR-406 Range: Varies with mission and load Armament: One 25mm gun system; guided and conventional air-to-ground ordnance; Sidewinder missile Contractor: McDonnell Aircraft Company, McDonnell Douglas Corp. SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE T-45A GOSHAWK MISSION: Train U.S. Navy and Marine Corps jet pilots. COMMENTARY: The T-45A Goshawk is the aircraft component of the T45TS integrated jet pilot training system. The complete system consists of: (1) the T-45A Goshawk aircraft; (2) an aircraft simulator suite; (3) academic materials, training aids and computer-aided instruction devices; (4) a computer based training integration system; and (5) contractor logistic support. The T-45A aircraft is a tandem-seat, carrier capable derivative of the existing British Aerospace Hawk aircraft. It is powered by a single Rolls Royce F-405 Adour engine. Introduction of the T-45A Goshawk, and the entire T45TS training system, will be a long-awaited step forward from the three decade old TA-4 and T-2 technology it will replace. FY 1988 was the first year of procurement for the T45TS. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 39.2 feet Wing Span: 30.8 feet Height: 13.4 feet Weight: 9,394 pounds (empty) Speed: Max, at 30,000 feet: .85 Mach (minimum); Approach: 125 knots True Air Speed Range: 825 nautical miles Propulsion: F405-RR-400 Crew: Two (pilot, student pilot) planned Inventory: 300 aircraft, 32 simulators Contractor: Douglas Aircraft Company of McDonnell Douglas SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE F-16N FIGHTING FALCON MISSION: Provide "adversary" air combat maneuvering aircraft against which Navy and Marine Corps pilots can train in an environment that closely simulates the real world of aerial combat. COMMENTARY: The Navy uses several aircraft to provide realistic air combat maneuvering (ACM) training. The Naval Fighter Weapons School ("Top Gun") at NAS Miramar, Calif., is a world center of air-to-air combat expertise. Top Gun teaches the Navy's best fighter pilots how to become the most proficient in the world at air combat maneuvering while developing and proving new air superiority tactics. In addition, Top Gun teaches the Navy's best fighter pilots how to become the most proficient in the world at air combat maneuvering while developing and proving new air superiority tactics. The newest adversary fighters are the Navy variant of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the F-16N, and the Israel Aircraft Industries-manufactured F-21 Kfir. The performance characteristics of the F-16N and the F-21 Kfir closely match those of several Soviet aircraft. Also used in ACM training are several versions of the A-4 Skyhawk, and the F-5 Freedom Fighter. CHARACTERISTICS F-16N Length: 49.5 feet Wing Span: 32 feet 10 inches Height: 16 feet 8 inches Weight: 35,400 pounds Ceiling: 50,000 feet+ Speed: Mach 2+ Range: 500+ nautical miles Propulsion: One GE F110-100 turbofan engine Crew: One Contractor: General Dynamics F-21 KFIR Length: 51 feet Wing Span: 27 feet Height: 20,514 pounds max take-off Ceiling: 50,000+ Speed: 1,300 knots (approx.) Range: 250 nautical miles (approx.) Propulsion: GE J-79-J1E turbojet Crew: One Contractor: Israel Aircraft Industries SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE V-22A OSPREY MISSION: Multi-mission aircraft designed for use by all services. Tiltrotor design will allow the V-22 to combine vertical take-off and landing capability with high speed, high altitude flight. U.S. Marine Corps MV-22A: Vertical assault transport for troops, equipment and supplies, operating from amphibious assault ships or bases ashore. U.S. Navy HV-22A: Combat search and rescue, delivery and retrieval of special warfare teams, and fleet logistic support transport. U.S. Air Force CV-22A: Long range special missions transport delivering U.S. Army Special Forces troops and equipment at mission radius in excess of 500 nautical miles. COMMENTARY: The V-22 Osprey is a tiltrotor aircraft with a 38-foot rotor system and engine/transmission nacelle mounted on each wing tip. It can operate as a helicopter when taking off and landing vertically. Once airborne, the nacelles rotate forward 90 degrees for horizontal flight, converting the V-22 to a high speed, fuel efficient turboprop airplane. The rotors are synchronized by an interconnect transmission shaft that runs through the wing between the two nacelle-mounted transmissions. This shaft also provides power from one rotor system to the other in case of an engine failure. The aircraft will fold for compact stowage aboard ship. The rotor blades fold inboard in front of the wing, which then swivels to parallel the fuselage. First flight occured on March 19, 1989, with service introduction planned for 1992. Bell Helicopter Textron and Boeing Vertol are teamed to produce the first six pre-production test aircraft. Following a production go-ahead decision, they will compete for production quantities of aircraft. CHARACTERISTICS Main rotor diameter: 38 feet; Blades per rotor:3 Combat speed: 284 knots at 5,000 feet cruise altitude Combat ceiling: 22,200 feet Weight: Combat: 42,486pounds; Landing: 33,615 pounds Armament: Provisions for two .50 caliber cabin guns; added provision for ramp-mounted gun in USAF CV-22A Contractor: The Bell-Boeing Team SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE E-6A MISSION: Provide secure, survivable, jam-resistant strategic communications relay for fleet ballistic missile submarines. COMMENTARY: The E-6A strategic communications aircraft will support the National Command Authority by providing a vital communication link to submerged fleet ballistic missile submarines. Very low frequency (VLF) radio signals are used because of the ability of VLF signals to penetrate seawater, making it unnecessary for submarines to surface to receive messages. The E-6A is being introduced as the platform for the communications relay system known originally as TACAMO, which stands for Take Charge and Move Out. The TACAMO communications system was introduced in the early 1960s, and was first installed operationally in a C-130. The current TACAMO aircraft is the Lockheed EC-130Q which is operated by two squadrons. The E-6A aircraft is a modified Boeing 707/C-137/E-3 airframe in which the existing TACAMO communications gear will be installed, including the 30,000-foot trailing wire antenna. The first two E-6As were delivered to the Navy in August 1989. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 150 feet Wing Span: 148 feet Height: 42 feet Weight: Max gross, take-off: 342,000 lbs. Ceiling: 42,000 feet Speed: .88 Mach Range: 1,000 nautical miles, with 6 hours loiter time Propulsion: Four GE/SNECMA CFM-56 turbofan engines Crew: Four flight, five mission Contractor: Boeing SOURCE: Department of the Navy (OP-941D); Washington, DC 20350-2000; (202) 697-3033 NAVY FACT FILE C-130 HERCULES MISSION: Navy and Marine Corps logistic support; air-to-air refueling; Very low frequency strategic communications relay; assault transport. COMMENTARY: The versatile C-130 Hercules has been proving its worth to the U.S. military for more than three decades. More than 40 versions of this four-engine turboprop workhorse have been produced, and more than 50 nations now operate it. Designed for the U.S. Air Force in the early 1950s to provide long range, high speed airlift capability for large Army and Air Force equipment, as well as troops and paratroops, the C-130 is constantly being updated and modernized. It can refuel aircraft ranging from helicopters to high-performance jets -- and then be reconfigured quickly as an assault transport. Navy EC-130Q/G Hercules TACAMO aircraft, using 200-kilowatt very low frequency communications gear, provide strategic communications for fleet ballistic missile submarines. Ski-equipped Navy LC-130s provide support to scientific exploration of the Antarctic; Navy DC-130s launch and control drones. Transport configured "straight" C-130Fs, operating worldwide, support the Navy and Marine Corps logistically. A Navy C-130 has even landed on and taken off from the deck of an aircraft carrier, without arresting gear or catapults. A new aircraft, the E-6A Hermes, is under development to assume the strategic communications mission with fleet ballistic missile submarines. Following this mission, the EC-130Q/Q aircraft will be reconfigured for the logistic support transport mission, or be converted to the air-to-air refueling mission. CHARACTERISTICS (C-130F) Length: 99 feet 5 inches Wing Span: 133 feet Height: 38 feet 3 inches Weight: Max gross, take-off: 155,000 pounds Design landing: 130,000 pounds (9 fps sink rate); Operating: 73,563 pounds (with external fuel tanks) Payload: Max, 2.5g: 45,597 pounds cargo Compartment: Floor Length: 41 feet; Width: 120 inches; Height: 108 inches; Floor Area: 533 square feet; Usable Volume: 4,500 cubic feet Propulsion: Four Allison T-56-A7 turboprop engines (C-130F); T-56-A-16 turboprop engines in KC-130T, and T-56-A-423 in the EC-130 G/Q Contractor: Lockheed-Georgia Company SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE C-9B SKYTRAIN II MISSION: Fleet logistic support, intratheater airlift and airlifting Naval Reservists to and from training sites. COMMENTARY: The C-9B is the military version of the commercial DC-9 Series 32CF airliner. The Navy uses it for intratheater airlift and to transport critically needed spare parts and other logistic support materials as well as to airlift Naval Resevists to and from their training sites. 27 C-9Bs/DC-9s are assigned to Naval Reserve squadrons and 2 C-9B's are assigned to the Marine Corps at MCAS Cherry Point, N.C., for a total of 29 C-9B's/DC-9's. During 1988, Naval Reserve C-9B/DC-9 aircraft flew 43,703 flight hours in providing fleet logistics support, including in-theater support for the Mediterranean, the Western Pacific and the UNITAS exercise in South America. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 119 feet Wing Span: 93 feet Height: 28 feet Weight:Empty: 65,283 in passenger configuration; 59,706 in cargo configuration; Max gross, take-off: 110,000 Speed: 438 knots Ceiling: 37,000 feet Range: 2,538 nautical miles (long rangecruise) Payload: 32,444 pounds (cargo or passengers) Crew: Two (plus cabin attendants) Contractor: Douglas Aircraft Division of McDonnell Douglas SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE C-2A GREYHOUND MISSION: Carrier onboard delivery (COD). COMMENTARY: The C-2A Greyhound provides critical logistics support to aircraft carriers (CVs) deployed throughout the world through its primary mission of Carrier On-board Delivery (COD). Powered by two T56 Turbo prop engines, the C-2A can deliver a payload of up to 10,000 pounds. The cabin can be readily configured to accommodate cargo, passengers or a combination of both. Mission essential cargo such as jet engines can be transported from shore to ship in a matter of hours. A cage system or transport stand provides the cargo restraint mechanism for loads encountered during catapult launch or arrested landing. The C-2A is also equipped to accept litter patients for Medevac. The large aft cargo ramp/door and powered winch facilitate fast turn around by straight in rear cargo loading and down loading. Demonstration of a ramp open flight envelope has added yet another dimension to the C-2A mission, allowing the air drop of supplies and/or personnel from a carrier launched platform. Automatic wing fold for carrier deck servicing and an auxiliary power plant installation for engine starting and ground power self sufficiency in remote areas provides an operational versatility found in no other cargo aircraft. The original lot of C-2A aircraft underwent a service life extension program (SLEP) in 1973. In 1984, a contract was awarded for the production of 39 new C-2A aircraft to replace the aging SLEP C-2A. Dubbed the Reprocured C-2A due to the similarity to the original (SLEP) C-2A, the new production aircraft included substantial improvements in airframe and avionic systems. All the older SLEP C-2As were phased out in CY 1987, and the last Reprocured C-2A is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in January 1990. During the period November 1985 to February 1987, VR-24 operating with 7 Reprocured C-2As demonstrated exceptional operational readiness while delivering 2 million pounds of cargo, 2 million pounds of mail and 14,000 passengers in support of the European and Mediterranean theatres. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 57 feet Wing Span: 81 feet Height: 16 feet Weight: Max gross, take-off: 57,000 lbs Speed: Max: 320 knots; Cruise:270 knots Ceiling: 31,000 feet Range: 1,440 nautical miles Propulsion: Two Allison T-56-A-425 turboprop engines; 4,600 shaft horsepower each Contractor: Grumman Aerospace Corp. SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE SH-60B SEAHAWK MISSION: Extend the sensors and weapons systems capabilities of surface combatants for anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship surveillance, and targeting. COMMENTARY: The SH-60B Seahawk is the air subsystem of the LAMPS Mk-III weapon system. LAMPS Mk-III is a computer-integrated ship/helicopter system that increases the effectiveness of surface combatants by providing a remote platform for deployment of sonobouys and torpedoes, processing magnetic anomaly detector sensor information, and an elevated platform for radar and electronic support measures. SH-60B Seahawk helicopters provided communications relay and visual surveillance services during the two-carrier battle group joint strike on selected terrorist-related Libyan targets in 1986. The SH-60F is designed to operate from carriers and replace the SH-3H as the carrier battle group inner anti-submarine warfare zone helicopter. It employs a new, longer range active dipping sonar in addition to the sonobouys to track and to attack submarines. It also incorporates significant improvements in reliability and maintainability, plus vastly improved tactical capabilities. The firm fixed price development contract for the SH-60F included ceiling priced options for the first five production lots, three of which have been exercised. CHARACTERISTICS (SH-60B) Length: 64 feet 10 inches (with rotors turning) Rotor Diameter: 53 feet 8 inches Height: 17 feet Weight: 20,508 pounds Speed: 130 knots Crew: Three (pilot, copilot, sensor operator) Range: 100 nautical miles with two hours on station Propulsion: Two T700-GE-401 turboshaft engines (1,690 shaft horsepower each) Armament: Two Mk-46 torpedoes Contractors: IBM (mission avionics component of LAMPS Mk III, Sikorsky (airframe component of LAMPS Mk-III) CHARACTERISTICS (SH-60F) Same as SH-60B except: Weight: 21,884 pounds Crew: Four (pilot, copilot, tactical sensor operator, acoustic sensor operator) Range: 50 nautical miles with three hours on station Armament: Up to 3 Mk 46 or 3 Mk 50 torpedoes SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE SH-2F Seasprite MISSION: Extend and increase shipboard sensor and weapon capabilities against several types of enemy threats: notably submarines of all types, surface ships, and patrol craft that may be armed with anti-ship missiles. COMMENTARY: Seasprite is a ship-based anti-submarine (ASW) and anti-ship surveillance and targeting (ASST) helicopter. The SH-2F is equipped with a search radar, electronic support measures, magnetic anomaly detectors, and an acoustic data link. The helicopter also carries active and passive sonobuoys. The prototype Seasprite flew for the first time in 1959. Since then, there have been many versions produced for the Navy under its LAMPS program to provide helicopters for ASW and ASST operations. In both FY 1986 and FY 1987, the Navy continued procurement of these LAMPS MK I aircraft at six each year, bringing the total new production SH-2Fs to 60. Funding for modification of 42 SH-2Fs, 6 production and 36 retrofit began in FY 1987. The modification includes the T700-GE-401 engine and improved ASW mission equipment. These 42 aircraft will be designated SH-2G. In FY 90 a service life extension program will start. CHARACTERISTICS Fuselage Length: 40 feet, 6 inches Length: 53 feet Height: 14 feet, 6 inches Weight: 8,919 pounds empty; 13,500 pounds normal takeoff Speed: 144 mph maximum; 124 mph cruise Ceiling: 15,000 feet Range: 367 nautical miles with maximum fuel Propulsion: The SH-2G version is powered by two T700-401 turboshaft engines, while the SH-2F is equipped with two T58-GE-8F turboshaft engines Crew: Three Contractor: Kaman SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE CH-53E SUPER STALLION MISSION: The primary mission of the CH-53 is to transport supplies and heavy equipment, its secondary mission is to transport personnel. The Navy CH-53E's primary mission is the vertical onboard delivery (VOD) of cargo to ships underway. COMMENTARY: The CH-53E Super Stallion is a shipboard compatible helicopter configured for the lift and movement of cargo and troops/passengers internally and the external lift of heavy oversized equipment. The aircraft is assigned six Navy missions to include VOD augmentation, transfer of damaged aircraft, mobile construction support, high priority container transportation, nuclear weapons transportation and airborne mine countermeasures. The Marine Corps missions for the CH-53E include tactical movement of heavy weapons and equipment, amphibious assault operations, recovery of downed aircraft (to include self-retrieval), VSTOL support and special operations. The lift capacity of the CH-53E makes it the only helicopter capable of lifting some of the new weapon systems in the Marine Corps providing greater assault capability to include the M-198 Howitzer and the different variants of the new Light Armored Vehicle (LAV). The range and payload capability of the Super Stallion provide the ability to perform special operations in support of the rapid deployment force. The MH-53E Sea Dragon is a multi-mission variant of the CH-53E and has significantly enhanced AMCM capability over the current Navy RH-53D helicopter. The AMCM improvements enhance the aircraft's capability to perform utility and special missions by significantly increasing range and navigation capability. The combined nomenclature designation of both aircraft is the CH/MH-53E. The CH/MH-53E is the largest helicopter in the western world with a gross weight of 73,500 pounds. It provides increased military capabilities to include external cargo of 16 tons over a 50 NM radius, a VOD augment mission of 9.8 tons for a 500 NM range, extended range through inflight refueling with KC-130's and Helicopter Inflight Refueling (HIFR) with air capable ships. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 99 feet 0.5 inches (with rotors turning); 73 feet 4 inches (fuselage) Width: 79 feet (with rotors turning) Height: 28 feet .5 inches Weight: 73,500 pounds (max gross weight with external attached); 69,750 pounds (max gross weight with weight on wheels) Speed: 150 knots Propulsion: Three General Electric T64-GE-416 turboshaft engines (4,380 shaft horsepower each) Contractor: Sikorsky Aircraft Division of United Technologies Corporation SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE CH-53E SEA STALLION MISSION: The primary mission of the CH-53A/D is to transport supplies and equipment; its secondary mission is to transport personnel and conduct evacuations. The primary mission of the RH-53D is Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM), and it has a secondary mission of Vertical Onboard Delivery (VOD). COMMENTARY: The CH-53A/D assault/heavy lift helicopter prototype first flew in 1964. A Navy aerial minesweeping version, the RH-53D, is basically a CH-53A/D with upgraded engines and special minesweeping gear. CHARACTERISTICS Length: Fuselage: 67.5 feet; Rotors turning: 88 feet 3 inches Main Rotor Diameter: 72 feet 3 inches Height: 24 feet 11 inches Weight: 42,000 pounds (max gross) Speed: 160 knots Range: 578 nautical miles (886 n.m. ferry range) Ceiling: 12,450 feet Payload: 37 troops or 24 litter patients plus four attendants or 8,000 pounds cargo Propulsion: Two General Electric T64-GE413 turboshaft engines (3,925 shaft horsepower each) Contractor: Sikorsky Aircraft Division of United Technologies Corporation SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, D.C. 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE SH-3H Sea King MISSION: Detect, classify, track and destroy enemy submarines. The helicopter also provides logistic support and search and rescue capability while deployed aboard an aircraft carrier. COMMENTARY: The SH-3H is a twin engine, all-weather, ship-based anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter. It is equipped with variable depth sonar, sonobuoys, data link, chaff and a tactical navigation system. The first version of this workhorse ASW helicopter was flown more than 20 years ago. The current model is equipped with sonar, active and passive sonar buoys and magnetic anomaly detection equipment. The Sea King is now starting to be replaced by SH-60F helicopters. The transition will last into the late 1990s. The SH-3H will then be converted to the search and rescue utility support roles for Navy missions into the 21st century. CHARACTERISTICS Fuselage Length: 54 feet, nine inches Length: 73 feet Height: 17 feet Weight: 11,865 pounds empty; 21,000 maximum takeoff Speed: 166 mph maximum; 136 mph cruise Ceiling: 14,700 feet Range: 542 nautical miles Propulsion: Two General Electric T58-GE-10 turboshaft engines Crew: Four (including two sonar operators) Contractor: Sikorsky SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE UH-46 SEA KNIGHT MISSION: Vertical replenishment. COMMENTARY: The Sea Knight is another example of a durable and versatile aircraft that still is providing valuable service more than two decades after it was first flown. Various versions of it have been flown by both the Navy and the Marine Corps; the UH/CH-46 by the Navy for vertical replenishment, the CH-46 by the Marine Corps for troop transport, and the HH-46 by the Navy and Marine Corps for search and rescue (SAR). The Sea Knight can carry approximately 6,000 pounds of cargo in a sling beneath the fuselage. The CH-46E has been modified with much more powerful engines than earlier Navy and Marine Corps versions. Since the first flight of the Sea Knight in 1962, it also has served the armed forces of Canada and Sweden. It has been out of production since 1971. CHARACTERISTICS Fuselage Length: 46 feet Length: 84 feet Height: 17 feet Weight: Gross, 23,300 pounds Speed: 165 mph Ceiling: 14,000 feet Range: 206 nautical miles; ferry range, 530 nautical miles Propulsion: Two General Electric T58-GE-10 turboshaft engines Crew: Three Contractor: Boeing Vertol SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 2061-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE HH-60H MISSION: The HH-60H has two primary mission roles. Configured in the Helicopter Combat Support (HCS) posture, the aircraft performs critical strike rescue missions. Configured in the Special Warfare Support (SWS) role, the aircraft provides rapid transport and deployment of eight fully equipped troops. In its secondary roles, the HH-60H serves in the capacity of medical evacuation and logistics support. COMMENTARY: The HH-60H is a derivative of the SH-60F with the anti-submarine warfare equipment replaced by Strike Rescue and Special Warfare Support mission equipment. HCS is being procured for operation by the Naval Reserve. Aircrew survivability subsystems include APR-39 radar warning receiver, ALQ-144 infrared jammer, engine exhaust infrared suppressors, night vision goggle-compatible cockpit and armored seats. Aircraft ordnance systems will consist of two M6OD machine guns and an ALE-39 chaff/flare dispenser. First contractor flight of the HH-60 was conducted on August 17, 1988. Navy testing began with the delivery of the first aircraft to the Naval Air Test Center, Patuxent River, Maryland, in March 1989. Subsequent aircraft will be delivered to HCS-5 (established at Pt. Magu, Calif., on October 2, 1988) and HCS-4, to be homeported at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 64 feet, 10 inches (rotors turning) Rotor Diameters: 53 feet, 8 inches Height: 13 feet, 3 inches (blades and tail folded) Weight: 21,884 pounds Speed: 130 knots (cruise) Crew: Four Combat Radius: 237 nautical miles (HCS); 189 nautical miles (SWS) Propulsion: Two T700-GE-401 turboshaft engines (1641 shaft horsepower each) Armament: Two 7.62mm M60D machine guns (internally mounted, 3000 rounds ammunition) Contractor: Sikorsky SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, D.C. 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE VH-60N THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA MISSION: The VH-60N is an air transportation helicopter that is capable of conducting worldwide executive transport missions in support of the President of the United States and his staff. COMMENTARY: The VH-60N replaces the VH-1N, which was viewed as no longer adequately capable of performing the mission, and will augment the VH-3D by providing for expanded communication capabilities. The VH-60N is a derivative of the UH-60A Blackhawk, with the addition of selected SH-60B Seahawk dynamic components. The VH-60N is air transportable in the C-130, C-141 and C-5 aircraft. The main rotor blades, tailroter blades and tail pylon can be folded for transport. The aircraft contains necessary avionics and instrumentation for instrument navigation and mission accomplishment. The cockpit and all avionics are electronic magnetic pulse hardened. Nine aircraft will be assigned to the Executive Flight Detachment of Marine Helicopter Squadron One, based at Quantico, Virginia. CHARACTERISTICS Length: 64 feet, 10 inches (rotors turning) Rotor Diameter: 53 feet, 8 inches Height: 16 feet, 10 inches Weight: 22,000 pounds Speed: 180 knots Crew: Three (pilot, co-pilot, communication systems operator) Range: 490 nautical miles Propulsion: Two T700-GE-401 turboshaft engines (1,543 shaft horsepower each) Passenger Load: 10 Contractor: Sikorsky SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, D.C. 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE VH-3D EXECUTIVE HELICOPTER MISSION: Executive transportation in support of the White House. COMMENTARY: The VH-3D is a twin-engine, all-weather, executive transport helicopter. It is equipped with air conditioning, custom interior and a special communication package. The first version of this Presidential helicopter, the VH-3A, flew President Kennedy more than 25 years ago. The current model is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics for communication and navigation. CHARACTERISTICS Fuselage Length: 54 feet, 9 inches Length: 72 feet, 8 inches Height: 16 feet, 10 inches Weight: 14,249 pounds empty; 20,500 maximum takeoff Speed: 140 knots maximum; 115 knots cruise Ceiling: 14,700 Range: 400 nautical miles Propulsion: Two T58-GE-400B turboshaft engines Crew: Three Contractor: Sikorsky SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, D.C. 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791 NAVY FACT FILE S-3 Viking MISSION: Seek out and destroy enemy submarines, and provide surveillance of surface shipping. COMMENTARY: The S-3 Viking is a carrier-based, subsonic, all weather, long range, high endurance turbofan powered aircraft. It can locate and destroy enemy submarines, including newer high speed, deep submergence, quiet running submarines. The S-3 operates primarily in the mid and outer carrier battle group anti-submarine warfare (ASW) zones with other ASW units -- surface, airborne, and subsurface. It also can operate independently, or in tandem with its long range, land-based ASW partner, the P-3 Orion. Weapons carried by the S-3 include various combinations of torpedoes, depth charges, missiles, rockets, and special weapons. Current S-3A mission capability rates continue to exceed CNO goals. This high performance is due to personnel improvement, increased spare parts procurements now being delivered to the fleet, and improved depot repair capability. An S-3B Weapon System Improvement Program (WSIP) modification is well underway. The WSIP provides the S-3B with greatly improved capability in all assigned warfare areas. Improved technology for Inverse Synthetic Aperature Radar and increased radar detection range and classification, advanced acoustic integrated processing and display, electronic support measures, and weapon system integration with the Harpoon missile, gives the S-3B significantly greater ASW capabilities plus a formidable anti-surface warfare punch. Initial S-3B deployment is planned for early CY-1990. CHARACTERISTICS (S-3) Length: 53 feet 4 inches Wing Span: 68 feet 8 inches Height: 22 feet 9 inches Weight: Max design gross take-off: 52,539 pounds; Empty: 26,864 pounds Speed: 450 knots; Ceiling:40,000 feet Range: 2,300+ nautical mile Propulsion: Two General Electric TF-34-GE-400B turbofan engines (9,275) pounds thrust each) Crew: Four Armament: Four Mk-46 torpedoes, bombs, mines, 2 Harpoons (S-3B) Contractor: Lockheed-California Company SOURCE: Public Affairs Office; Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 07D2); Washington, DC 20361-0701; (202) 746-3791